Could you explain the aims and the significance of hosting the Grasslands Silk Road International Communication and Cooperation Forum?

First, we are aiming to research and explore the colorful cultures of the grasslands and to make Hohhot an international center for grasslands culture.

The Mongolian ethnic group is the largest in the city, which is home to a total of 41 ethnic groups, including the Hui, Manchu, Daur and Ewenki. The inheritance and development of their rich cultures will drive the tourism sector.

In recent years, we have protected and renovated many time-honored temples including the Xilitu Lamasery and the Five-Pagoda Temple, and also Shengyue Ancient Town. The renovation of scenic attractions including Wuchuan Daqing Mountain Grasslands, Tuzuoqi Hasuhai Cultural Park and Laoniu Bay National Geological Park has also been completed.

The international forum is expected to gather a number of experts and scholars to enhance research into grasslands culture, so as to raise its profile.

Second, the event is expected to enhance international exchanges and help build the city into a spearhead for China's opening to its western and northern neighbors.

Both the country and the autonomous region have mapped out strategies to accelerate regional cooperation and joint prosperity among neighboring regions and countries.

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